The dromedary camel is the best adapted ruminant to extreme desert environments. Its anatomy and physiology differ from other animals that live in warmer climates. It is versatile, a source of cheap animal labour and forms an essential part of desert ecosystems as a number of plants use dromedary camels’ ...
The dromedary camel is the best adapted ruminant to extreme desert environments. Its anatomy and physiology differ from other animals that live in warmer climates. It is versatile, a source of cheap animal labour and forms an essential part of desert ecosystems as a number of plants use dromedary camels’ digestive systems for seed dispersal . The dromedary camel is also a principal source of protein for native populations because of its ability to convert scarce desert plant resources into milk and meat protein, making it valuable for human consumption. Dromedary camels have exceptional milk production when compared to cattle in harsh environments and their lactation persists through dry seasons. Dromedary camel milk has a high nutritional value being three times richer than cow’s milk in vitamin C and is known to be rich in iron, unsaturated fatty acids and vitamins A, B1, B2 and B12. Outside of food production, dromedary camels have various other roles as pack animals, saddle animals, racing animals as well as being used for demonstrations and parades, such as local festivals and Fantasia, a traditional cultural event typical of North Africa, where dromedary camels, among other animals, are involved in sport demonstrations.
Large camelids are the subject of renewed interest in many fields of research around the world. Unfortunately, previous investigations show that many of the African countries where dromedary camels are best suited to make a difference face numerous challenges, preventing them from technically advancing in the field of breeding and therefore being unable to take full advantage of this animal. Strengthening the collaboration among all relevant stakeholders, researchers, breeders and government agencies, is central to advance the development of this resource and the impact in the region.
This Research Topic seeks manuscripts exploring, but not limited to, the following themes:
• Morpho-biometric, immunogenetic, biochemical or molecular studies of dromedary camel populations.
• Dromedary camel impact on pastures
• Dromedary camel breeding systems
• Dromedary camels’ diversity and production potential
• Pharmacopoeia aspects of dromedary camel products
Keywords:
Dromedary, health, genetics, ecology
Important Note:
All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.